Unlike many of the other beachfront cities in Brazil, the nearly 3.5 miles of coast in Santos is actually a singular beach that’s separated by several canals. Each of the seven sections of beach bears the name of its neighborhood, or “bairro” in Brazilian Portuguese. To take advantage of all the beaches when visiting this town in the state of São Paulo, the travel editors of the national tourism guide "Guia Quatro Rodas" recommend staying at least two days.

Praia do José Menino

Although the natural conditions of all Santos beaches have little difference among them, the beach of José Menino often has stronger waves due to its positioning between canal one and the platform of a submarine emissary, a long pipe that protrudes into the sea, creating a barrier that changes the force of the water flow. It’s an ideal location to practice water sports like boogie boarding or surfing.

Praia da Pompéia

The Pompéia beach is between canals one and two. Tourist attractions include monuments to Christopher Columbus and the sport of surfing, particularly, Brazilian surfers including Osmar Gonçalves and Thomas Rittscher. The mayor of Santos also operates a school on the beach called Escolinha Radical, which provides basic surf and bodyboarding instruction for students of all ages, from small kids to seniors.

Praia do Gonzaga

The Gonzaga beach between canals two and three is the liveliest of the seven beaches since it’s where the majority of the city’s hotel lodging options are located, along with plenty of “temporada” rentals by independent owners. It’s also on the final stop of the Conheça Santos tourism bus line.

Praia do Boqueirão

Between canals three and four, the Boqueirão beach features ATM machines, a police station and public restrooms. You also can enjoy a recurring arts and crafts fair, offered every weekend.

Praia do Embaré

The Embaré beach is between canals four and five in front of the basilica Menor de Santo Antônio do Embaré. This coast is popular among the younger set that likes to party, as it features numerous bars and beach-side kiosks serving food and drinks. Temporary rentals are prevalent throughout the neighborhood.

Praia da Aparecida

The Aparacedia beach between canals five and six caters to kids and seniors. This coast is ideal for cycling or rollerblading. In the evening, opportunities abound for mixing and mingling, including dances for ages 50 and up.

Ponta da Praia

You can see ships entering and leaving the port of Santos between canals six and seven at the Ponta da Praia. Tourist attractions include art exhibitions and a yacht club, and ferries to nearby Guaruja. Fishermen are often found casting a line along canal seven, too.

References

Guia Quatro Rodas; Editora Abril

About the Author

Tricia Chaves began her writing career after working in advertising and promotions for entertainment publisher "The New Times." In 2005, she earned her real-estate salesperson license from the state of Ohio and certification for leasing and property management from the Northeast Ohio Apartment Association. She was certified as a life and weight-loss coach and master practitioner of neuro-linguistic programming in 2011.